Snowflake Obsidian

Insight • Cleansing • Truth • Personal development • Reduces fear

Energetic properties

Snowflake Obsidian is a powerful and fast-acting protective stone. It promotes inner peace and calm, bringing balance to the body, mind, and soul. It has a gentler effect than black obsidian. The stone can assist in processing trauma and bringing clarity and insight. Physically, snowflake obsidian may have a positive influence on the veins, skeletal system, eyes, cataracts, flu, and colds.

Suitable for children from around 6 years old.

Formation

Snowflake Obsidian forms when lava from a volcano cools rapidly and solidifies, creating volcanic glass. This glass is obsidian, an amorphous (non-crystalline) material. The characteristic white or gray "snowflake"-like patterns in Snowflake Obsidian are caused by small inclusions of the mineral cristobalite.

During the cooling process, these cristobalite crystals begin to form within the obsidian, creating the typical specks or snowflake-like formations. This occurs while the lava is still partially molten, allowing the crystals to grow and spread within the glass. The result is the unique pattern that makes Snowflake Obsidian so recognizable.

Etymology

Obsidian is named after a Roman explorer named Obsius, who is said to have discovered the stone in Ethiopia. In Latin, the stone was called 'lapis obsidianus', meaning 'stone of Obsius', which later became 'obsidian' in English. The name is now used for all types of volcanic glass, including Snowflake Obsidian.

The 'snowflake' in its name refers to the stone’s appearance, as the white specks resemble snowflakes.

Care

Snowflake Obsidian is relatively hard and durable and doesn’t require special care. It can be cleaned under running water and gently patted dry with a soft cloth. It may also be cleansed and recharged using sage, incense or moonlight.

Origin

Can be found in various volcanic regions around the world. It occurs especially in countries with active or former volcanic activity, such as the United States; particularly in states like Oregon and Utah, which have rich obsidian deposits. Mexico is another major source due to its many volcanic regions, and Iceland, known for its volcanic landscapes, is also home to Snowflake Obsidian.

Availability

Snowflake Obsidian is relatively common and widely available globally, and is therefore not generally considered rare. However, it can vary in quality and size, and some rare forms; such as pieces with unique inclusions or of exceptional size, may be more valuable.

Properties

Composition: SiO₂
Hardness: 5-5.5
Density: 2.3-2.6

Associated with Snowflake Obsidian